A colleague from our Integrity Centre took part in the annual meeting of the European network NEIWA, which took place in Valencia. The network brings together 33 organizations from 24 different countries that are committed on improving the integrity  and protection of whistleblowers and taking a stand against corruption. 

During several workshops, participants shared their knowledge and experience. The outcome of the meeting was the "Valencia Declaration", in which they highlighted the importance of whistleblowing.

"Whistleblowing is the best tool in the fight against corruption" say the members of the network in their Declaration. In the Declaration, they also condemn any form of suppression or limitation of the independence and efficiency of integrity and whistleblowing authorities. 

NEIWA members highlighted the importance of strengthening the work and coordination of all actors involved in the field of whistleblowing and the fight against corruption such as police and justice but also the civil society, as their contribution is essential for the establishment of a “Speak up” culture

A major issue for the network is the European Directive on the protection protection of whistleblowers, which has since been implemented in several European countries, including Belgium. Paul Hafellner, Legal Officer in the Fundamental Rights was invited to this meeting and made a presentation on the status of the transposition of the European Directive on the protection of whistleblowers of corruption. 

Finally, the network decided to admit new members, including Ombudsman of Wallonia (Belgium) and the Federal Institute of Human Rights (Belgium).